A85/100
South Pasadena Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 25,329 residents · California
What's In South Pasadena's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 1999.
Understanding violation severity
Tier 1Urgent health risk. Utility must notify all customers within 24 hours.Tier 2Important health or treatment issue. Customers notified within 30 days.Tier 3Administrative or monitoring issue. Reported in the annual water quality report.
Source: EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS) · Updated quarterly
Water Utility Details
CITY OF SOUTH PASADENA
Population Served
25,329
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
CA1910154
Frequently Asked Questions About South Pasadena Water
Is South Pasadena tap water safe to drink?
South Pasadena, California tap water receives a grade of A (85/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 69 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in South Pasadena's water?
69 contaminants were tested in South Pasadena's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.
Does South Pasadena have any water quality violations?
Yes, South Pasadena has 3 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 1999. Violation types include MCL. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in South Pasadena?
South Pasadena water meets EPA standards, so a filter is not strictly necessary. However, some residents prefer the added security of a water filter. EPA health goals (MCLGs) are stricter than legal limits and are set at levels with zero expected health risk. All contaminants are within health goals.
Where does South Pasadena's tap water come from?
South Pasadena's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by CITY OF SOUTH PASADENA. The system serves approximately 25,329 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is South Pasadena's water tested?
Under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), water utilities are required to regularly test for over 90 contaminants. Testing frequency varies by contaminant — some are tested monthly, others quarterly or annually. South Pasadena's water systems must report results to the EPA and publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). The data on this page reflects the latest available EPA testing data.
How does South Pasadena's water compare to other cities in California?
South Pasadena's water quality score of 85/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places South Pasadena among the better-performing water systems in California. Visit our California state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about South Pasadena's water quality?
If you have concerns about South Pasadena's tap water, consider these steps: (1) Request your utility's annual Consumer Confidence Report for detailed local data. (2) Get your water independently tested through a state-certified laboratory. (3) Consider an NSF-certified water filter rated for the contaminants found in your area. (4) Contact your water utility (CITY OF SOUTH PASADENA) with specific questions. (5) Report water quality issues to your state drinking water program or the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.